Skip to main content

Stovetop Quinoa

This grain-like seed is quick to cook and has an earthy flavor that goes well in salads, soups and stews.
Bowls of cooked quinoa.
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Makes: 3 cups
Nutrition Facts: View label

Ingredients

1 cup quinoa (if not pre-rinsed, rinse well using a fine-mesh strainer)
2 cups water
¼ teaspoon salt (optional)

Directions

  1. Wash hands with soap and water.
  2. In a saucepan, bring water to a boil. Add quinoa and salt, if desired, and return the mixture to a boil.
  3. Reduce heat to low, cover pan and simmer for 12 minutes.
  4. Turn off heat and let stand until water is absorbed and quinoa has the texture you like, about 5 to 10 minutes.
  5. Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours.

Notes

  • For more flavor, cook with broth or milk instead of water.
  • For a roasted flavor, toast the grains in the saucepan. Stir the grains around at medium heat for a few minutes before adding liquid.
  • Topping ideas: fresh, frozen or dried fruit; milk or yogurt; chopped nuts or seeds; cinnamon or other spices. Savory toppings include vegetables and cheese.
  • Add to soups, grain bowls or grain salads.
  • No strainer? Use a clean coffee filter.

Comments

This is a no-fail way to cook quinoa. Turning off the heat and letting it sit to soak up remaining water keeps it from being soggy and overcooked.

You might also like...

Recipes A to Z (without photos)

Applesauce French Toast
Slices of french toast cooked with applesauce, vanilla and cinnamon are displayed on a plate.

Applesauce French Toast

A low-sugar and flavorful French toast recipe that’s perfect with your favorite toppings!
Prepare:
5 minutes
Cook:
10 minutes
Makes:
6 Slices
Lemon Dill Brussels Sprouts
Plate of brussels sprouts with a creamy yogurt dressing.

Lemon Dill Brussels Sprouts

Sauteed Brussels sprouts with a creamy lemon and dill sauce.
Prepare:
15 minutes
Cook:
10 minutes
Makes:
2 Cups
Brussels Sprouts, Cranberry and Bulgur Salad
Dishes of salad featuring Brussels sprouts, dried cranberries and nuts mixed with a citrus dressing.

Brussels Sprouts, Cranberry and Bulgur Salad

You'll please everyone with this delicious salad. It's quick to make for a holiday meal or a healthy lunch.
Prepare:
45 minutes
Makes:
5 Cups
Quick Tomato Salsa
Medium bowl of diced tomato salsa with cilantro.

Quick Tomato Salsa

Canned tomatoes and fresh herbs make a quick and flavorful salsa.
Prepare:
5 minutes
Makes:
2 cups
Cherry Puff Pancake
Photo of Cherry Puff Pancake

Cherry Puff Pancake

A fun to bake pancake recipe known by some as a Dutch Baby. Try with cherries or your favorite fruit.
Prepare:
5 minutes
Cook:
15 minutes
Makes:
4 pieces
Broccoli Raisin Salad
A bowl is filled with crunchy salad featuring broccoli, raisins and sunflower seeds.

Broccoli Raisin Salad

A quick and delicious salad that will be a hit at home or at a party.
Prepare:
20 minutes
Makes:
6 Cups